Tonic Water — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Tonic water nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 34 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 9 g | 3.27% |
| Fiber | 0 g | - |
| Sugars | 9 g | 18% |
| Glycemic Index | 63 | - |
| Protein | 0 g | - |
| Sodium | 7 mg | 0.3% |
| Total Fat | 0 | - |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
34
🍏 Low-Calorie Foods
Tonic water facts & tips
Health benefits
- Hydrating, as it provides fluids to help maintain fluid balance in the body.
- Contains quinine, which can help prevent and treat malaria, although modern tonic water contains much lower amounts than medicinal levels.
- Low calorie options are available, which can be a refreshing beverage choice without high sugar content.
- Enhances flavor in mixed drinks and can be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing beverage.
Health risks
- High sugar content in most commercial tonic waters, which can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and increased risk of diabetes when consumed frequently.
- Potential for quinine-related side effects as tonic water contains quinine, which can cause side effects like nausea, headaches, or dizziness in sensitive individuals when consumed in large quantities.
- Potential for digestive discomfort such as bloating or gas due to carbonation, particularly in individuals sensitive to fizzy drinks.
- Low nutrient density as tonic water provides minimal nutritional value beyond hydration and its distinctive bitter flavor.
How to choose tonic water
Tonic water should be clear with a lively carbonation that is evident as soon as the bottle is opened. It should have a subtle quinine bitterness balanced by a slight sweetness. The flavor should be clean and refreshing.
Avoid tonic water that tastes flat or has a chemical aftertaste, as these are signs it is not of good quality. Bottles that appear cloudy or have sediment should also be avoided, as they may not provide the best taste or mixing properties.
How to store tonic water
Unopened tonic water should be stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigeration preserves carbonation and freshness for up to a week. Ensure the cap is tightly closed.
Air exposure leads to flat tonic water. Store upright after opening to maintain bubbles. Avoid room temperature, which accelerates carbonation loss. Proper storage ensures tonic water remains fizzy and refreshing.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Tonic water can last for 9 months unopened when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be consumed within 1-2 days to enjoy its optimal carbonation and flavor.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover tonic water can be used in a variety of culinary and non-culinary ways. In the kitchen, tonic water can be used as a mixer for cocktails, mocktails, and desserts. It can also be used to poach fruits, adding a subtle bitterness that balances their sweetness, or as a base for sorbets and granitas.
Beyond drinking, tonic water has several other uses. It can be used in DIY beauty treatments, such as using it as a facial toner to help tighten and refresh the skin, thanks to its astringent properties. Tonic water can also be used to clean and shine metal surfaces, particularly chrome and stainless steel, giving them a bright, polished finish. Additionally, tonic water can be used in craft projects, such as making fizzy bath bombs or adding a unique texture to homemade soaps. Some people even use tonic water in gardening as a natural pesticide, though this should be done with caution to avoid harming plants.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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